I read poetry in two ways.

I read as a human, looking to interact with the poems, and be moved. There were poems here that did that.

I also read as an English teacher, looking for poems that will inspire thought and writing in my classroom. There were also strong poems for that purpose.

Poetry is a political act, as affirmed by this text.

Ode to America by Odetta A. Fraser is a powerful poem, narrated by a single voice who details the shambolic and painful situation we know that is America- past and present.

Detailing the history of turmoil- from the founding fathers and slavery to the present crisis in politics and people that sees gun crime, drug abuse and personal and political exploitation tear through society.

Skilfully rhymed throughout, the poem propels you faster and faster through the narrative, mirroring the speed at which America is losing control.

Published just last year, this poem is a reflection of the anguish we see in society today. The fact that people are still being murdered for the colour of their skin. Girls are sexually exploited. People are killed in random shootouts. Politicians do not care.

Fraser takes the form of an ode- usually suggestive of glory and wonder - and picks apart the problems of American society, while tearing into the falsehood that America is the land of the free.